As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, many of which can significantly impact our hair. For women, one of the most notable transitions is menopause, bringing hormonal fluctuations that can affect the health and appearance of hair. Anabel Kingsley, Consultant Trichologist and Brand President at Philip Kingsley, offers expert advice on menopausal hair loss, how hormones influence hair growth, the role of nutrition, and how to care for menopausal locks.

Hormones and Hair Growth

Hormones play a critical role in regulating the hair growth cycle, with oestrogen and testosterone being the most influential. Kingsley explains that as women approach and enter menopause, their oestrogen levels decline, which can lead to episodes of hair shedding known as telogen effluvium.

“Some women notice a marked difference in their 40s and 50s, whereas for others it’s more subtle,” says Kingsley. The extent of these changes largely depends on genetics and the timing of menopause. Oestrogen is essential for supporting both hair and scalp health, and its decline can affect hair density.

While hormones are the primary factor, Kingsley highlights the importance of considering other internal and external influences, such as stress, exposure to UV rays, health conditions, and diet, all of which contribute to hair health during menopause.

Nutritional Deficiencies and Hair Loss

When it comes to hair loss, nutrient deficiencies can be a major contributor, especially during menopause. “Any vitamin or mineral deficiency can worsen hair loss,” Kingsley notes, though some deficiencies are more common than others during this time.

For instance, iron deficiency, which is less common post-menopause due to the cessation of monthly blood loss, can still occur during perimenopause when periods may become heavier. Low levels of iron and ferritin (stored iron) can have a significant impact on hair growth.

Other prevalent deficiencies during menopause include Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and inadequate protein intake. Kingsley also advises women to be mindful of health conditions, particularly thyroid imbalances, which can also negatively affect hair.

Caring for Menopausal Hair

As hair ages, it becomes more vulnerable to damage due to changes in the hair’s cuticle (outer protective layer), a reduction in lipids, and a loss of elasticity. To combat this, Kingsley recommends a gentle approach to hair care, emphasising the need to protect and strengthen the strands.

Here are some expert tips from Kingsley on how to care for menopausal hair:

Pre-shampoo conditioner: Use a product like Philip Kingsley’s Elasticizer once a week to restore strength and elasticity, helping hair stretch without breaking.

Heat protection: Apply a lightweight, heat-protective styling oil such as Lipid Shield, which not only protects hair from heat damage but also restores its lipid layer and adds shine.

Gentle styling: Opt for non-abrasive hairbrushes with rounded prongs, like the Vented Paddle Brush and towel-dry with a microfibre towel to avoid unnecessary friction.

Volume-enhancing products: Boost volume with specialised shampoos, sprays, and foams. Kingsley recommends the Density range, which offers products that volumise and improve hair health. The Density Foam, for example, adds volume to the roots while promoting hair growth, while the Protein Spray strengthens, detangles, and adds bulk to the mid-lengths and ends.

Key Hair Changes During Menopause

While some hair changes are inevitable as we age, the onset of menopause often accelerates these shifts. “Most women find their hair becomes finer, less dense, and less lustrous,” Kingsley explains. Greying is another common concern, as is increased brittleness in individual strands.

A significant change during menopause is the shortening of the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, meaning more hair follicles enter the telogen (resting/shedding) phase. This leads to noticeable thinning in some women.

The hormonal shifts leading up to menopause, specifically the drop in oestrogen and rise in androgens, can also trigger hair loss and changes in density. Women with a genetic predisposition to hair follicle sensitivity to androgens may experience more significant hair thinning during this time.

Final thoughts

While menopause brings inevitable changes to a woman’s hair, understanding the underlying causes can empower women to take steps to manage and protect their hair health. Hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and general ageing all contribute to hair thinning, shedding, and loss of elasticity. However, with the right care—such as using protective products, gentle styling, and addressing nutrient deficiencies—women can maintain healthier, fuller hair as they navigate this transition.

Anabel Kingsley’s expert guidance reminds us that while hair changes are a natural part of menopause, proper care and attention can make a noticeable difference in how our hair looks and feels.